Mahe (Seychelles) - Dubai Seychelles, souks and spectacular skylines

La Digue, the fourth-largest island in the Seychelles, is legendary for its relaxed atmosphere and imposing granite cliffs: the colossal rounded rocks are particularly impressive at the idyllic Anse Source d’Argent, which is perfect for bathing thanks to its shallow turquoise waters. There are hardly any cars on La Digue and most people use bicycles to get around. It’s a great way to explore the island and its hidden wild beaches in the north. In the south of the island is the L’Union Estate, a former plantation estate, which provides insights into the traditional trades of the island and is home to two extremely rare species of terrapin. The ship will stay overnight – perfect for enjoying your time to the fullest.

White sandy beaches lined with palm forests, including Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio, are the idyllic picture-perfect spots on Praslin, the second-largest island in the Inner Seychelles. Anse Lazio in particular, surrounded by impressive granite cliffs, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. The island’s interior is home to Praslin’s national park, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Vallee de Mai. This is where the ancient Seychelles coco de mer palm trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old, grow. Together with around 43 other species of plant and rare animals like the black parrot, they form a unique natural paradise.

Salalah, the green pearl of Oman, enchants visitors with a fascinating mix of desert landscapes, tropical oases and endless beaches. Thousands of years ago, the city was already an important trading centre for treasures from the Orient – a history that can still be felt today at Al Hafa Fort Market. The world’s only incense souk offers fragrant treasures as well as regional specialities and handicrafts. In the surrounding area, the majestic Dhofar Mountains, banana plantations and waterfalls awaken the spirit of discovery. The coastline beckons with fine sandy beaches, turquoise water and idyllic bays.

Welcome to Muscat in a scenic location at the foot of the Hajar Mountains. The capital of Oman has its own unique way of blending tradition with modernity. Enjoy the view of the glittering yachts in the harbour as you stroll along the Corniche, then immerse yourself in the colourful offerings of the Mutrah souk, which has been the bustling heart of the city for centuries. Thanks to the seductive scents of spices, perfumes and herbs as well as the colourful selection of fine fabrics and handmade jewellery, a stroll here promises to be an experience for all the senses. The enormous Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest religious buildings in the world, is also an unforgettable sight – a masterpiece of modern architecture.

Khasab is the gateway to exploring the Musandam peninsula, an exclave of Oman known for its spectacular landscapes. Use the time for exciting excursions* into the hinterland: majestic fjords and steep cliffs characterise the breathtaking beauty of the “Norway of Arabia”. Traditional dhows glide leisurely across the vast blue expanse, where, with a bit of luck, dolphins may also make an appearance.

In Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, luxury meets tradition and avant-garde architecture meets magnificent mosques. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque, whose dazzling white domes and intricate mosaics are among the most impressive sights in the entire country, is an absolute highlight. The futuristic face of this metropolis is reflected in the glass facades of the Etihad Towers, while spectacular buildings such as the Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace and the Emirates Palace hotel are reminiscent of a modern dream from the Arabian Nights. The Heritage Village museum offers fascinating insights into the lives of the Emiratis before the oil boom in the 1960s, taking visitors on an extraordinary journey through time. Art lovers will be delighted by the Louvre Abu Dhabi with masterpieces from various cultures, and those seeking relaxation will find it on the city’s fine sandy beaches. Thanks to the long lay time, you can enjoy the metropolis until the evening.

Sir Bani Yas – a small Garden of Eden with pristine beaches, azure waters and expansive nature – lies off the coast of the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Once the private retreat of Sheikh Zayed, the island now offers not only luxurious relaxation, but is also a true paradise for nature lovers: more than half of its area is taken up by the Arabian Wildlife Park, which is home to more than 10,000 animals, including giraffes, gazelles and oryx antelopes. Picture-perfect beaches and vibrant underwater worlds invite you to enjoy nature in a relaxed manner or with sports activities. Thanks to the long lay time, you can take full advantage of the attractions of Sir Bani Yas until late in the evening.

Once a small trading post in the desert, dazzling Dubai is now the epitome of a modern fairy tale where the future and the past merge. Glittering skyscrapers stretch towards the sky while traditions are omnipresent at their feet. On the bustling Dubai Creek, dhow boats transport goods from all over the world, just as they did hundreds of years ago, and the souk entices visitors with the scents of saffron and cinnamon. While shoppers love the luxurious shopping centres selling collections from major international designers, the gold market exudes an incomparable charm with its sparkling displays and long-established dealers. A must for any visit to Dubai is a trip to the Burj Khalifa, whose viewing platform at a height of 456 m (1,496 ft) offers spectacular views over the metropolis. The EUROPA 2 will stay overnight, allowing you to enjoy Dubai’s endless possibilities to the fullest.